Country music legend Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80, her family has announced on social media.
The Tennessee-born singer, songwriter and actress became one of the world’s most recognisable entertainers during a career spanning nearly seven decades. Her best-known songs included Jolene, 9 to 5 and I Will Always Love You.
Beyond music, Parton was celebrated for her warmth, wit and philanthropy. Her Imagination Library distributed millions of free books to young children around the world.
Her husband of almost 60 years, Carl Dean, died in 2025. Parton had recently spoken publicly about continuing health difficulties.
She leaves behind an extraordinary musical legacy—and a place in popular culture few performers could ever hope to match. Be that as it may, the rhinestones may have dimmed, but the songs will endure.
